Epic Beginnings — Test Answers

Read the excerpt from Lena's paper on "A Shield." Based on the phrases "I am wounded with iron" and "I have witnessed much fighting," the shield in the poem must be an old shield carried by a seasoned warrior. In her statement, Lena is

Read the passage from "A Shield." A lonely warrior, I am wounded with iron, Scarred with sword-points, sated with battle-play, Weary of weapons. I have witnessed much fighting, Much stubborn strife. Which word from the passage helps characterize the shield as part of Anglo-Saxon culture?

Read the excerpt from The Iliad of Homer. Meanwhile the Achaians sloping their shields across their shoulders came close to the rampart. But his deadly fate held Hektor shackled, so that he stood fast In front of Ilion and the Skaian gates. What ancient Greek belief is reflected in this excerpt?

What ancient Greek beliefs about heroes are prevalent in The Iliad of Homer ? Choose three correct answers.

Read the excerpt from The Iliad of Homer. The old man stretching his hands out called pitifully to him: "Hektor, beloved child, do not wait the attack of this man alone, away from the others. You might encounter your destiny beaten down by Peleion . . .” What ancient Greek belief does this excerpt best illustrate?